Suspected streetlight cable thieves have recently been nabbed in Cape Town. Motorists driving along M5 had noticed that there was an additional section, in darkness.
Alleged streetlight cable thieves arrested
The Mayoral Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith says vigilant officers had noticed suspicious activity happening alongside the highway, in the vicinity of a bridge, which was concealed behind the protective barrier fencing.
They stopped to investigate and discovered that a trench had been dug behind the barrier. In the trench were 3 suspects. The crouching alleged offenders were in the trench, digging out the recently replaced streetlight cabling.
A growing list of outstanding theft and vandalism cases
Upon seeing the approaching officers, they abandoned their tools and fled but officers gave chase and managed to apprehend the trio.
“Sadly, the cabling had already been cut, with a large section removed,” Smith added.
MORE INFORMATION: Report vandalism here
He says this must now be added to the growing list of outstanding theft and vandalism cases, that must still be attended to.
Law Enforcement Metal Theft Unit
Smith says trained officers from the Law Enforcement Metal Theft Unit arrived on the scene to assist.
Furthermore, “Unfortunately the list has been growing faster than what service contractors can attend to.”
The 3 suspects were taken to the Wynberg Police Station, where they were charged. They face charges of theft and damage to critical infrastructure.
A minimum prison sentence of 3 years
The MMC says under the Criminal Matters Amendment Act, a minimum prison sentence of 3 years is prescribed, up to 30 years.
“Hands off our copper cable! We will catch you,” Smith warned.
